Intro to Social Contract Theory

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Instructor: Sabrina Weiss
5-10 students
Suggested Age Ranges: 13+, Adults included!

Days and Times Tuesdays, 5pm, 4 weeks, starting May 11th.

Ages 12 through Adult

Course Description

This course is an introduction to three Social Contract philosophical theories by Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.  We will use secondary sources to do an overview of each theory, compare-contrast them, and discuss how they influence how we think today.  Connections to historical, social, and political context will be included.  This course could be considered an approachable introduction to philosophy.

Students will be expected to prepare for class and participate actively in our discussions (whether through voice or text chat).  Students will also be asked to maintain a thought journal throughout the course to aid reflection and discussion. 

Outline: 

Note: Readings should be done BEFORE the class listed so we can discuss it. 

The Leviathan: Thomas Hobbes

Life, Liberty, Property: John Locke

The General Will: Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Where do we use the Social Contract today?

Register for Intro to Social Contract Theory here!